Everything you need to know about Suffolk cycle routes

If you fancy taking a holiday that includes some fantastic places to see by bike, then Suffolk is the perfect destination for you. Suffolk cycle routes offer a good variety ranging from short, gentle routes to more difficult, longer routes. Here we have put together a list of routes suitable for the whole family as well as some essential safety and equipment ideas to ensure you get the most from your holiday.

Popular Cycle Routes

Located between Thetford and Bury St Edmunds, Kings Forest is a popular circular route that begins at the West Tow Country Park. Around 13 miles in length, this route takes you on mostly off-road tracks which are also used by walkers and horse riders. On the way, you can see stunning woodland and peaceful countryside. It’s an ideal route if you’re new to cycling. The country park itself is a great place to stop and relax afterwards with a café, toilets and children’s play area available.

Peddars Way is a unique long distance path that begins in Knettishall Heath Country Park and continues all the way to Holme-next-the-Sea on the Norfolk coastline, around 46 miles in total! Although this may sound daunting, the route is actually mostly flat bridleway and country roads making it ideal for families with small children. And of course you don’t need to cycle the whole way! You can stop for food and refreshments at the Dog and Partridge pub or the Olde Windmill Inn not too far from the starting point to help you re-fuel for the next part of your journey! If time permits, be sure to visit the picturesque Castle Acre Priory in King’s Lynn!

For something a little more challenging, the Icknield Way Trail can also be cycled. However, at about 170 miles, this route is more for the cycling enthusiast! Another great route to take at only 8.5 miles long is the Alton Reservoir Track which takes you all around the tranquil reservoir where wildlife is in abundance. This route has everything you could need such as cafés, a water activity centre, bird hides and fishing spots. This really is a great family route that the kids will love too.

The best time of year to cycle in Suffolk is in spring on a fine, dry but fairly cool day. This will ensure you don’t get too hot and uncomfortable. There are many campsites in Suffolk near these cycle routes, so you’ll be spoilt for choice on which one to choose!

Safety, Rules and Regulations

Cycling is a great and efficient way to travel around Suffolk but there are a number of rules and regulations that should be followed to ensure the safety of yourself and others around you. When following a cycle route, you should always stick to the marked tracks and be careful not to veer off into the road which could be dangerous for you and other motorists. Try to wear fluorescent colours and make sure you have lights on the front and back of your bike to help pedestrians and other road users see you clearly in poor visibility.

Be aware of large or long vehicles where the driver could have difficulty seeing you. If they are performing a manoeuvre, don’t be tempted to rush ahead and ride past them. Wait patiently or find an alternative way around, giving the vehicle plenty of room, particularly if you are riding on narrow roads. Also take care when passing horse riders who may also be using the roads and paths. Ride slowly and quietly so as not to startle the horses. Following these regulations will help you have a safe and enjoyable trip as you cycle around Suffolk.

Equipment

Bicycles can be hired from various outlets across the county, such as Suffolk Cycle Hire in Rendlesham. Just a 10 minutes cycle from Tunstall Forest, Suffolk Cycle Hire can help you find the perfect bike for both adults and children. They even provide trailer attachments so you can take little ones who are too young to ride by themselves!

Make sure everyone is wearing a helmet at all times, especially the children. Consider taking a tyre pump and a bike lock which you can also hire. It is important to keep yourselves hydrated while you ride, particularly if the weather is warm as this can lead to feelings of nausea and faintness very quickly. Many bikes come with a bottle holder specifically for this purpose. Other equipment to consider would be a basic first aid kit, snacks, cycle map and a camera. On a cold day, it is always best to wear lightweight but warm layers that can easily be pulled on and off throughout the day if the weather changes. Remember to pack waterproof clothing in case there’s rain.

Known as England’s ‘Cycle County,’ Suffolk is an ideal place to take a family holiday if you’d like to spend some time cycling. With great locations to go camping, this really is a beautiful, scenic destination that the whole family will enjoy visiting.